- serve (v.)
- late 12c., "to render habitual obedience to," from Old French servir "to serve," from Latin servire "to serve," originally "be a slave," related to servus "slave," perhaps from an Etruscan word (cf. Etruscan proper names Servi, Serve). Meaning "to attend to (a customer)" is first recorded mid-14c.; that of "to set food on (a table)" is from late 14c. Sporting sense, in tennis, badminton, etc., first recorded 1580s; the noun in this sense is from 1680s. To serve (someone) right "to treat as he deserves" is recorded from 1580s. To serve the time "shape one's views to what is in favor" is from 1550s, translating Latin tempori servire; time-server first recorded 1580s. Related: Served. Serving "a helping of food" is from 1769.